5 Best Patch Management Software in 2024

Applying a software update is an easy thing to do. If you need to update a few apps on a single computer, it’s no big deal. But extend the application to hundreds of smartphones, tablets, and laptops running different operating systems. Plus, add a collection of native and third-party apps to the mix. In fact, around 10% of companies across various industries worldwide have more than 200 apps for work.

Naturally, a feeling of being out of depth might sink in. What seemed a routine and straightforward task now feels like an uphill battle. Fortunately, patch management software is there to help companies navigate through the complexities of the patching process. In this article, we share the top patch management software worth a second look at in 2024.

1. Scalefusion

Scalefusion is a comprehensive OS and third-party app patch management tool to manage your Windows workstations. The dashboard gives you an easy view of available and missing patches of devices in your environment. Scalefusion lets you define the update frequency and a time window for cumulative app updates without interrupting daily tasks.

Key features:

• Integrated dashboard
• Third-party application patching for Windows 10 and 11
• Control when and where patches are applied

Scalefusion is one of the top patch management solutions that suits organizations looking to boost their security and employee productivity.

Pricing:

• Prices start at $5 per device/ month, billed annually. Choose the Business Plan to access the Windows OS and third-party app patch management capabilities.
• Scalefusion offers a 14-day free trial

2. Microsoft SCCM

Microsoft SCCM is a popular patch management solution that provides a centralized dashboard to manage updates for all Windows devices on the network. SCCM integrates with other Microsoft products, such as Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), to provide comprehensive patch management capabilities.

Key features:

• Centralized dashboard
• WSUS integration
• Automated patching

Microsoft SCCM suits large enterprises looking for endpoint protection, patch management, and software distribution.

Pricing:

• You will need to get in touch with Microsoft for pricing

3. Atera

Atera offers one of the best patching software as a part of its all-in-one IT management solution. With its Live Manage option, you can search for patches and install them in real time on devices. Atera’s patch management tool and IT automation capability allow you to automate frequent patches as a part of your periodic maintenance task. For example, you can schedule critical patch updates for servers and workstations on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.

Key features:

• Real-time search and installation
• Automation
• Schedule reports

Atera suits medium to large businesses looking for a cloud-based IT management solution or patching tools.

Pricing:

• Prices start at $149 per month/technician, billed annually
• Atera offers a free trial

4. ITarian

ITarian is a cloud-based remote access management solution to monitor devices, troubleshoot issues, and handle operations. You can use the patch management capability to scan operating systems and install updates remotely.

Key features:

• Automated patching
• Remote Access
• Reporting

ITarian is suitable for small to medium-sized businesses and MSPs looking for a basic solution and sufficient ROI.

Pricing:

• ITarian provides the free version for up to 1,000 devices, and plans start at $1.25 per device per month. MSPs get additional discounts.
• ITarian offers a free trial

5. SolarWinds Patch Manager

SolarWinds Patch Manager simplifies many steps of the patch management process — from research to scheduling to deployment to reporting — for servers and workstations. You can use it to extend the capabilities of Microsoft WSUS or SCCM to deploy, manage, and report third-party and Microsoft patches.

Key features:

• Patch management of virtual Windows and desktop servers
• Consolidated interface to view the latest patches
• Out-of-the-box reporting

SolarWinds Patch Manager is suitable for large enterprises that require comprehensive patch management capabilities.

Pricing:

• Pricing starts at $2,187 (subscription and perpetual licensing model)
• Free trial for 30 days

Wrapping Up

Protection, efficiency, and regulatory compliance are the main drivers for buying the best patching software. It is a critical investment for any organization. All the above mentioned tools offer free trials with varied periods. So be sure to try before you buy!